Chapter 17: Problem 13

What is the main advantage of automatic stabilizers over discretionary fiscal policy?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The main advantage of automatic stabilizers over discretionary fiscal policy is that automatic stabilizers respond faster to economic fluctuations with minimal political interference. They work automatically without the need for active government intervention, providing a more efficient and impartial stabilizing effect on the economy during times of volatility.

Step by step solution

Definition of Automatic Stabilizers

Automatic stabilizers are economic policies that automatically adjust government spending and taxation to counteract economic fluctuations without the need for policymakers to actively intervene. Examples of automatic stabilizers include unemployment benefits, progressive income taxes, and welfare programs.

Definition of Discretionary Fiscal Policy

Discretionary fiscal policy refers to government decisions regarding spending and taxation that are made deliberately to counteract economic fluctuations. This involves active intervention from policymakers, who must assess economic conditions and implement changes in tax rates or government spending to achieve their desired goals in combating inflation or unemployment.

Main Advantage of Automatic Stabilizers

The main advantage of automatic stabilizers over discretionary fiscal policy is that they work automatically and are faster in responding to economic fluctuations. This means that they can help reduce the severity of economic downturns and stabilize the economy more quickly compared to when the government needs to plan and implement discretionary policies, which can take time to be enacted and may be subject to political pressures.

Speed and Efficiency

Automatic stabilizers work more quickly in response to economic changes as they do not require explicit policy decisions from the government. On the other hand, discretionary fiscal policy often takes time to analyze the situation, develop and pass legislation, and implement the policy, leading to potential delays in responding to economic fluctuations.

Political Neutrality

Automatic stabilizers are not subject to political pressures or biases, as they operate based on pre-established rules and triggers, making them more reliable and predictable in countering economic downturns. Discretionary fiscal policy may be influenced by political agendas, electoral considerations, or public sentiment, potentially at the expense of economic stability. In conclusion, the main advantage of automatic stabilizers over discretionary fiscal policy is their ability to respond faster to economic fluctuations with minimal political interference. This allows for a more efficient and impartial stabilizing effect on the economy during times of volatility.